Key West and the impact from the Horizon Oil Rig / Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

With the current talk about the Gulf of Mexico oil slick we thought it only fitting to talk about the ramifications to the Florida Keys and Key West. Firstly, let me point out that we are not experts in the field of oil exploration or ocean currents so do not take what we write as god given gospel. Rather, we are local Key West and Florida Keys residents merely pondering the consequences that seem to be floating our way.

The Gulf of Mexico loop current is something we honestly never really pay attention to unless a Hurricane is looming. With the advent of the oil rig explosion the loop current has taken a new meaning and precedent for us. To clarify for those of you that are a little confused about the current. The loop current enters the Gulf from the south between Cuba and the Yucatan Peninsula. The current continues north and splits about one quarter of the way north into the Gulf. At this point the current splits with part going west towards Mexico and looping up and around the Gulf coast. The other part of the current goes north towards Louisiana and then half way into the gulf turns east, southeast towards the Florida Keys. Thus, leading to the current predicament we are in.

It's concerning to start hearing about the oil slick approaching the Keys. Many here in town are still oblivious to the fact that this is very probably going to interfere with summer plans. Then again, in a notice sent out by the Florida Keys Tourism Office they reference multiple plans being put into place in order to clarify questions people may have.

It is obvious that visitors to Key West and the Florida Keys are beginning to take notice. Local businesses are getting phone calls from concerned tourists that are wondering if their long awaited vacation is going to be ruined. The best answer we can give is, NO! Key West and the Florida Keys may very well be impacted eventually by the spill but that is no reason to cancel your plans. In an article published yesterday it was questioned whether the Gulf Loop Current would direct it through the Keys or actually divert it around. The current varies in its distance from the Marquesa's (The furthest West point of the Florida Keys). Depending on what the current does, we may escape the immediate consequences other areas will fell.

It has been reassuring to hear about all of the local agency's pulling together and beginning to rally secondary plans together but it is also concerning when state officials tell us residents to treat this like a Hurricane is approaching, and that's an entirely terrifying scenario. We do know one thing, as I look out the window at the sun hitting the brougenvea; Key West is as beautiful as ever so if you're planning a vacation, don't change your plans. Key West and the Florida Keys are open for business and we look forward to seeing you.

We also want to say that we feel horrible for the loss of life and the environmental impact this has. After enduring a winter where 30% of our reef coral died off due to cold temperatures we are learning once again how fragile our home is. Our deepest condolences go out to those who perished in the accident and we can do nothing but urge BP and the US Government to contain this as fast as possible. This is not a situation to let bureaucratic red tape stand in the way of progress!

Tony Tropical lives in Key West, FL and operates the Key West travel website http://www.myhotelskeywest.com. You can book your travel plans and attraction tickets here as well as grab a free KW map and information. Tony also helped to write To Key West the Ultimate Guidebook available at http://www.to-key-west.com. This article may be reproduced as long as the (2) website links are copied and posted along with the article reprint.